3 Ways to Help Your Kids Sleep at Night
By Genevieve Cunningham
Kids can be a lot of fun. They're full of laughs and silliness. They bring play back into our lives. But let's not pretend that it's all fun and no work. Kids are hard -- and when they're tired, all of the fun disappears and the work is almost unbearable. Unfortunately, kids tire easily, which is why it's so important to make sure they get enough sleep. But how? While some kids go to sleep easily, others are impossible to lull to sleep. But there are some things you can do to help our cause. If your kids need a little extra help falling asleep, take a look at these tips to try out tonight.
Get a Little Exercise
Exercise will help make your kids tired and get that pent-up energy out. You'd think that a full day of school would do the trick, but often times, there isn't enough movement happening during the day to really expel that energy. It doesn't have to be scheduled exercise. Instead, just get your kids outside on a playground for some free play time. A simple 30 minutes or an hour of play might be enough to get rid of the energy and allow room for fatigue to slip in.
Skip the Screen
Screens aren't really good for kids. Sure, we're all going to use them. But if your kids are coming home and spending the rest of the day on a screen, they may not be able to wind down properly at night. Instead of going straight for the screen, send your kids to play or do crafts or complete puzzles. Allow them some time to wind down in a way that doesn't involve the television or computer. This might take a little work in the beginning, but it doesn't take long for your kids to adjust. And as a bonus, they may be able to sleep better since their brains won't be quite so wired up at the end of the day.
Wind Down
Kids need routine. For better sleep, help them create a bedtime routine. Maybe they need a bedtime book, some water, and a few minutes of cuddles. Maybe they need an episode of their favorite show (just one!), a warm bath, and some quiet music. Experiment to see what works for your kids, and then let them settle in every night.
If you want well behaved, healthy kids, then good sleep should be a part of their lives. Use these tips to help your kids get to sleep at night. It might take some time, but the long-term effects will be worth the struggle. Good sleep, good kids, happy and healthy lives for everyone involved!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Escondido, Calif.